A Message from the Field—End of Year Reflections
To the LiNK community,
Two months ago, you received an update that we had surpassed 400 rescues through our Refugee Rescues Program. This was an accomplishment for the LiNK community, but more so it was an accomplishment for the 400+ individuals who braved the journey out of North Korea, and then with your support, made it from China to safety in Southeast Asia. Time and time again we are blown away by the strength and resilience of the North Korean people as they make this journey, even as they venture into uncharted territories.
As you may guess, we are delighted and excited every time we meet more North Koreans who have made this journey, and this year has been another year to celebrate the accomplishments of these individuals. Among these individuals, there are families who come out together, there are husband and wife pairs who escape together, there are children who are leading the way for their parents, or following in the footsteps of a mother or father. Know that your support is bringing families together, as well us giving us the privilege of supporting both families and individuals who are starting new lives.
We know that not all is perfect, and that some of the North Koreans we have come alongside of have family or friends who remain in North Korea and China. Their number one goal is to bring their loves ones out, period. We met a father recently who plans to bring his children out to join him in South Korea as soon as possible. We could see both in his words and his expression that he meant what he was saying, and that he would not rest until they were reunited. His journey was not easy, but now that he knows that it is possible, he is determined for his children to take that same journey.
As the new year starts for him and our North Korean friends, we encourage you to keep them in your thoughts, and continue your support for them. Every time we explain that there are people who support the North Korean people, and that these people are putting time, effort, and money into those they may never meet, there is a moment of speechlessness. We are proud, and YOU should be proud that you are changing someone’s life—even from half a world away.
A HUGE thank you, and best wishes for your 2016!
-From the field
